Pupils are now more familiar with the world of work – thanks to parents of fellow pupils. On Friday 27 January 17 parents attended the Year Nine Careers Event to share their work experience with pupils, ahead of when they make their Options choices.

Parents were invited by Mrs Taliadoros, Head of Year Nine, to demonstrate the range of careers that are available and qualifications that are required. Professions were varied and included medical, law, marketing communications, retail, accountancy, nursing, social services, Royal Navy and media.

After speaking with Year 11 and 12 students over lunch, each parent was given ten minutes with a small group of pupils – just enough time to explain what their job involves, and how they got to where they are now. Mrs Mitchell has a background in Social Care and spoke to pupils about working with Social Workers to make sure children and families are safe. Mrs Walker, who works in Mental Health explained how there are many different parts to nursing, and encouraged pupils to talk about the different types of mental illnesses. Mr Leeming is currently a Retail Catering Manager but through his varied career was able to demonstrate how many skills transfer from job to job. Pupils were particularly interested to hear about the earning potential of a parent who works in the Offshore Industry laying internet cables under the sea bed!    

Hannah Beachill, aged 13, attended the event and comments, “I thought the event was really good and provided me with lots of information. I particularly enjoyed listening to the Nurse.” Molly Cave, also 13, has a good idea of the Options she is going to choose and is thinking of studying drama at University – but the event has given her second thoughts. “I really enjoyed the event – it opened my mind to a wider range of jobs that I didn’t even know existed. I thought the Social Worker and Mental Health Nurse jobs sounded really good – and I think I would like to work with people.”

Mr Stuart works in Marketing Communications and comments, “I found the afternoon highly engaging. It was great to be able to share some of my thoughts and professional experiences with Year 11 and 12 students who showed real passion for the types of careers they are hoping to pursue. I also really enjoyed the opportunity to speak with groups of Year 9 students who are coming to the first real milestone in their academic lives, where they have to start making choices about what subjects interest them and how these could be applied in any future career. Hopefully, as both parents and professionals, we were able to give them some useful advice on the day and show them how surprisingly relevant they'll find many of their current school subjects in later life. I only wish my school had organised something similar when I was their age!"

Captain Henry Duffy has been in the Royal Navy for 25 years and has also completed the All Arms Commando Course with the Royal Marines. “I was asked questions about the Navy but also about the Commando course – whether a student was fit enough to do the training. I attended the event to reassure concerns students may have, and also offer advice. I am delighted to support this event – the parents here today have many years work experience to share with the pupils.”